One of the most remote cities in the world, formerly known as Turkestan. It is situated along the ancient Silk Road near the Sino-Russian border. Sightseeing highlights include the ancient mosques and open markets. A fascinatingly colorful and ancient way of life still exists.
Nova Scotia covers an area of 21,425 sq. miles, and Halifax is the capital. This is an area rich in history — Gaelic is still spoken here in some areas by descendants of the early settlers. The coast is peppered with fishing villages, and inland the climate boasts sprawling valleys and rocky headlands.
The Columbia River Gorge, straddling the border between Oregon and Washington, is a stunning natural wonder renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures. This dramatic canyon, carved by the Columbia River, is flanked by towering cliffs and lush forests.
Guanajuato, a UNESCO World Heritage City nestled in the mountains of central Mexico, is a place where history is built into every hillside alley and underground tunnel. Today, visitors can still tour La Valenciana Mine, where centuries-old tunnels and original mining equipment offer a glimpse into the city's wealth-driven past. The nearby Templo de San Cayetano, built by mine owners in the mid-1700s, is a stunning example of baroque design, lined with gilded altars and intricate woodwork.
Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia, is a city with a story that spans more than a thousand years. Its coastal setting has long shaped its character, blending African, Arab, and Persian influences that can still be seen in its culture and architecture today.
Kerak is a fortress town 75 miles (120km) from Amman, and contains one of the two major Crusader castles in the Kingdom. The castle, built to protect the approach to Jerusalem, stands on a craggy plateau 4,300ft above sea level. It was built in the early part of the 12th century and held for 50 years by the Crusaders until they were defeated by Salah al Din (Saladin) in 1189.
This majestic fortress, which has been partially restored, is a maze of small rooms and passageways and offers some interesting exploration for the visitor. The greater part of the town of Kerak lies within the walls of the old Crusader town.
Kerak lies on the King's Highway, an international trade and transit route for the past five thousand years and one of the most historic and scenic routes in the world. The villages and landmarks along its way are historic sites, many of which are mentioned in the Bible.
Other Popular Destinations in Jordan
Petra
Tucked between Jordan's sandstone cliffs in the southwestern desert, Petra was carved directly into rose-colored rock more than 2,000 years ago. Visitors approaching through the narrow gorge known as the Siq are rewarded with their first glimpse of Al-Khazneh, the Treasury, a towering facade that seems to appear from another world.
Amman
Situated near the Dead Sea, Amman is the capital of Jordan and a cultural and historical hub in the Middle East. Explore this sprawling city, replete with historic landmarks, museums, and mosques, and you’ll soon be enraptured by its blend of metropolitan and ancient beauty.